Leeds favourite, Blackhouse, has announced it is set to unveil an evolution of its popular city centre restaurant in 2026.
If you're a Leeds foodie, then there's no doubt that you'll have visited Blackhouse.
The iconic steakhouse on East Parade is known for it striking interiors, fabulous food and sexy atmosphere.
It's been serving the people of Leeds for a whopping 18 years, and to celebrate the achievement they're having a refresh.
The new direction will introduce a refreshed food, drink and social offering that stays true to the qualities that have made it one of Leeds’ most enduring dining destinations.
Blackhouse will continue to serve exceptional steaks, while expanding its culinary offer with a vibrant new menu shaped around local produce and seasonality.
Guests can expect a renewed focus on seasonal dishes, with a menu that evolves every six-eight weeks with elevated sharing dishes that encourage a more social dining style.
Image: Supplied
The Blackhouse bar will offer a broader choice wines by the glass utilising Coravin technology, an expanded range of draught beers and a new curated list of affordable cocktails making it a new night out destination.
There will also be a new all day bar food menu served from 12 ‘til close which includes a new signature “branded” burger.
Blackhouse GASTROBAR General Manager Matt McGuinness said: “What we’re unveiling in January is very much an evolution, not a revolution. Everything our guests love about Blackhouse will remain at the heart of what we do with a relaxed offer that keeps the warm, unmistakable Blackhouse charm that people return for time and again.
“As we prepare to celebrate 18 incredible years in Leeds, this is the last chance to dine the classic Blackhouse menu before we begin a bold new chapter and we’re very excited to share the next version of Blackhouse with the city.”
The new concept will launch on Friday 9 January, and you can book your table here.
To celebrate the launch, they'll be offering 50% off dining throughout January.
A newcomer to the Leeds foodie scene has been added to the coveted Michelin Guide.
You may remember back in April when a Leeds icon was reborn under a different name.
The Smithfield took over the site that was home to The Reliance for more than two decades, and it's safe to say it exceeded expectations.
The team transformed the site to its former glory, taking the site's exterior back to its memorable dark red. But the efforts to recapture the essence of the iconic old venue go way beyond that.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
The Smithfield, a collaboration between Crooked Brewing and Chef James Donovan, offers simple dining with seasonal food and natural wines.
It's the sort of place where you can rock up for a plate and a glass people watching through the huge window on North Street, or really get stuck into a sharing pie and chips with friends on a Saturday afternoon.
Either way we love it, and it seems we're not the only ones as The Smithfield has been added to the Michelin Guide just five months after opening.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Announcing the great news to Instagram, The Smithfield said: "We’re very pleased and grateful to have been included in the Michelin Guide.
"To get this kind of recognition so early in our journey is a real honour, and one we certainly don’t take for granted.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
"Thank you to our wonderful guests for your continued support. Also, huge thanks to our brilliant team. The Smithfield is what it is because of your hard work, enthusiasm, energy and diligence. This recognition belongs to you.
"We’re just getting started, and our focus remains the same: creating a welcoming space for our community, serving food and drink we’re proud of, championing great British and local produce, and contributing our small part towards Leeds’ brilliant hospitality scene. The Smithfield."
Iconic Betty’s Tea Room wins gold at 2026 Great British Food Awards
Clementine Hall
Betty's Tea Room has been named among the nation's best by experts.
If you live in Yorkshire, then you will know about Betty's Tea Room.
Its a real institution at this point, known for their exceptional service, exquisite food, beautiful window displays and the iconic cake trolley.
We all know their products are top tier, but they've just had even more recognition at the 2026 Great British Awards.
Announced in London, Betty's won gold for their Yorkshire Shortbread Biscuits which were judged by Cherish Finden, internationally renowned pastry chef.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Judging in the Sweet Biscuits category was led by Cherish Finden, best known as a judge on Bake Off: The Professionals.
She said: "A well-made traditional shortbread with a lovely buttery flavour, balanced sweetness and a subtle touch of salt that enhances the overall taste. The delicate, crumbly texture makes it particularly pleasant to eat.
"Overall, it is a very enjoyable and satisfying shortbread. I could eat the whole packet with a cup of tea."
Gavin Johnson, head of bakery operations at Bettys Craft Bakery, said: "We are incredibly proud that our Yorkshire Shortbread has been awarded a Gold Medal at The Great British Food Awards 2026.
"This recognition reflects the enduring values of Bettys, the finest ingredients, best quality, traditional craftsmanship and a deep connection to our Yorkshire roots.
"Most importantly, the award belongs to the talented bakery team, whose skill, passion and care go into making our Yorkshire shortbread every day.
"Their commitment to excellence helps ensure that our products reflect the heritage, quality and attention to detail that customers have associated with Bettys for generations."
Clementine Hall -
30th December 2025 
